20 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, but for the 2021 Audi RS 5 coupe and Sportback, it’s a figure owners implicitly agree to when signing on the dotted line. This isn’t a commuter car; it’s a performance machine with stylish design, aimed at drivers who prioritize thrills over fuel consumption. It’s the automotive equivalent of a tailored suit over workout gear, a statement of intent with a side of practicality.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the RS 5 will achieve 18 MPG in city driving and 25 MPG on the highway. Observing the typical driving routes in an RS 5 owner’s life, these numbers begin to make sense. Stop-and-go traffic hampers the turbocharged 2.9-liter V6, demanding more throttle input to surge ahead. The highway figure, while respectable, isn’t groundbreaking because the RS 5’s power delivery encourages enthusiastic acceleration, making it difficult to resist using the engine’s reserves. The standard S tronic eight-speed automatic transmission is geared for performance, not necessarily ultimate efficiency, though it does offer overdrive ratios to aid in MPG. Drive gently, and 25 MPG is achievable, but that demands a certain level of restraint some RS 5 drivers may find challenging.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,900 for the 2021 Audi RS 5. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a 55/45 city/highway driving split, using the national average fuel price for premium gasoline (which the RS 5 requires). It’s a stark reminder that performance comes at a price, and that price extends beyond the initial MSRP. While some owners might consider this figure a manageable expense considering the performance on offer, others may want to budget accordingly, especially with fluctuating fuel prices.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized estimate, real-world fuel economy often varies based on driving style, traffic conditions, and even weather. RS 5 owners who frequently engage in spirited driving or live in congested urban areas may find their actual MPG closer to the low end of the EPA range, or even dipping below it. Conversely, those who primarily use the car for longer highway cruises and maintain a light foot on the accelerator might see slightly better numbers. Understanding your own driving habits is crucial for setting realistic fuel economy expectations. Check all Audi fuel economy data to see MPG information on other Audis.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the RS 5’s fuel economy falls in line with expectations for its performance bracket. The BMW M4, for instance, is rated at 16 MPG city and 23 MPG highway, giving it a combined 19 MPG rating. The Mercedes-AMG C63 Coupe is even thirstier, achieving 18 MPG combined. The Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio matches the RS 5 at 20 MPG combined. These comparisons reveal that the RS 5 isn’t an outlier in its segment; buyers who prioritize horsepower over hybrid efficiency will understand this trade-off. For drivers cross-shopping the RS 5, the Porsche Macan S, at 19 MPG combined, provides a similar level of performance with slightly improved utility. Check the RS MPG across all years to compare the 2021 model to prior years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The best thing you can do to improve fuel economy on your RS 5 is to drive predictably. Avoid sudden acceleration and harsh braking, as these actions consume more fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed as much as possible. The adaptive cruise control can assist with this on the highway, helping to maintain a set distance from the vehicle ahead and avoid unnecessary speed fluctuations.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which in turn reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level, which can be found on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb or in the owner’s manual. Even a small difference in tire pressure can affect fuel consumption.

Minimize excessive idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern cars are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and idling wastes fuel. This is especially important in urban environments where drivers often find themselves waiting at long traffic lights or in stop-and-go traffic.

Consider selecting “Efficiency” mode, if equipped, to remap the throttle response to be less aggressive. This helps to optimize the engine and transmission for fuel economy, rather than outright performance. While it might slightly reduce the car’s responsiveness, it can make a noticeable difference in MPG, particularly during city driving.

Reduce aerodynamic drag by removing any unnecessary cargo from the roof rack, and any other external accessories that could disrupt airflow. Also avoid driving with the windows open at high speeds, as this increases drag and reduces fuel efficiency. Every little bit helps to get a bit more mileage from each gallon.